Description
Rubber Grass Mats for Horses UK – Heavy-Duty Gateway & Stable Flooring with Mud Control & Drainage
Transform muddy gateways, walkways and high-traffic areas into safe, clean surfaces for your horses. Our premium rubber grass mats are specifically engineered for equestrian environments, providing exceptional mud control, drainage and anti-slip protection. Made from 100% recycled rubber, these 1m × 1.5m × 23mm mats withstand constant hoof traffic while allowing grass to grow through naturally. Perfect for gateways, stable entrances, wash bays, paddock access and field entrances.
✓ 1m × 1.5m × 23mm size | ✓ 20mm drainage holes | ✓ 100% recycled rubber | ✓ Free UK delivery | ✓ Same-day dispatch
Why Choose Our Rubber Grass Mats for Horses?
- Superior Mud Control: 20mm diameter drainage holes channel water and debris away instantly – eliminates muddy gateways and reduces poaching by 90%
- Heavy-Duty Construction: 23mm thick recycled rubber withstands constant hoof traffic from horses, ponies and heavy machinery without compressing or breaking
- Anti-Slip Safety: Textured surface provides excellent traction in wet conditions – reduces slips, trips and injuries for both horses and handlers
- Grass-Friendly Design: Large 20mm holes allow grass to grow through naturally – mat disappears from view once established, maintaining natural appearance
- Quick Installation: No base work required – lay directly onto grass or hardcore, interlock edges for seamless coverage, install in under 30 minutes
- Shock Absorption: Cushioned rubber surface reduces impact on horses' joints and hooves – ideal for older horses or those with lameness issues
- All-Weather Performance: UV-stabilized rubber performs year-round in UK weather – frost-proof, won't crack or degrade in rain, snow or sun
- Eco-Friendly Choice: Made from 100% recycled tyres – environmentally responsible solution that diverts waste from landfill
- Low Maintenance: Self-draining design stays clean – simply hose down or pressure wash when needed
- Optional Pegs & Ties: Available with ground pegs and connecting ties for maximum stability on slopes or high-traffic areas
Technical Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Mat Dimensions | 1m wide × 1.5m long × 23mm thick |
| Coverage Area | 1.5m² per mat |
| Material | 100% recycled rubber (from tyres) |
| Drainage Holes | 20mm diameter – allows rapid water drainage |
| Weight | Approximately 25kg per mat |
| Colour | Black |
| Surface Texture | Textured anti-slip finish |
| Temperature Range | -20°C to +50°C (frost-proof) |
| Load Capacity | Suitable for horses, tractors, 4x4 vehicles |
| Installation | Lay directly on grass or hardcore – no base work needed |
| Lifespan | 10-15 years in equestrian environments |
| Optional Extras | Ground pegs & connecting ties available |
Perfect Applications for Equestrian Rubber Grass Mats
Gateway & Entrance Areas
- Field Gateways: Eliminate muddy bottlenecks where horses enter/exit fields – most common problem area on UK yards
- Stable Entrances: Create clean, safe access to stable blocks – reduces mud tracked into stables
- Paddock Access Points: Reinforce high-traffic areas where grass gets destroyed by constant hoof traffic
- Yard Entrances: Professional appearance for livery yards and riding schools
Stable & Barn Areas
- Wash Bays: Non-slip surface for washing horses – excellent drainage prevents standing water
- Grooming Areas: Comfortable standing surface for horses during grooming sessions
- Tack Room Entrances: Keep mud outside – clean transition from yard to indoor areas
- Feed Preparation Areas: Easy-clean surface for feed mixing and storage areas
Walkways & Paths
- Stable to Field Paths: Create permanent walkways that stay usable year-round
- Arena Access Routes: Safe, non-slip paths to riding arenas and lunging rings
- Muck Heap Access: Reinforced routes for wheelbarrows and tractors
- Car Park to Yard: Clean walkways for owners and visitors
Specialist Equestrian Uses
- Farrier Areas: Stable, level surface for shoeing – reduces farrier's back strain
- Vet Treatment Areas: Clean, hygienic surface for veterinary procedures
- Loading Ramps: Anti-slip surface for safe horse loading into trailers and lorries
- Tie-Up Areas: Designated safe zones for tying horses during yard work
Installation Guide – 3 Simple Steps
Step 1: Prepare the Area (15 minutes)
- Mark out the area to be covered – calculate number of mats needed (each mat = 1.5m²)
- For grass installation: Mow grass to 50-75mm height, remove any large stones or debris
- For hardcore installation: Level surface and compact – no membrane required
- For slopes: Consider using mats with pegs and ties for extra stability
- Ensure adequate drainage away from the matted area
Step 2: Lay the Mats (20 minutes)
- Start from one corner or edge of the area
- Place first mat and ensure it's level and stable
- Butt second mat tightly against first mat – edges should touch but not overlap
- Continue laying mats in rows, ensuring tight fit between all edges
- For irregular shapes, mats can be cut with a chainsaw or angle grinder
- Walk over mats to bed them into the surface
Step 3: Secure (Optional – 10 minutes)
- For flat, stable areas: Mat weight (25kg) holds them in place – no fixing required
- For slopes or high-traffic areas: Use ground pegs through drainage holes (4-6 pegs per mat)
- For connecting mats: Use cable ties through drainage holes to link mats together
- For grass installations: Grass roots will naturally anchor mats within 4-8 weeks
Pro Installation Tips:
- Install during dry weather for easier handling and positioning
- For large areas, use a tractor or telehandler to move mats into position
- Allow 2-3 weeks for grass to grow through holes before heavy use
- For instant use, lay mats on compacted hardcore or Type 1 stone
- Overlap mats slightly on slopes to prevent water running underneath
How Rubber Grass Mats Solve Mud Problems
Muddy gateways and high-traffic areas are the #1 problem on UK equestrian yards, especially during winter months. Here's how our mats solve this:
The Mud Problem:
- Constant hoof traffic compacts soil and destroys grass
- Compacted soil prevents drainage, creating standing water
- Water + traffic = deep mud that's dangerous and unhygienic
- Mud damages horses' hooves, causes thrush and abscesses
- Muddy areas are slip hazards for horses and handlers
- Mud gets tracked everywhere, increasing yard maintenance
How Our Mats Work:
- Load Distribution: 23mm thick rubber spreads hoof weight across 1.5m² – reduces soil compaction by 85%
- Rapid Drainage: 20mm holes drain water instantly – no standing water, no mud formation
- Grass Protection: Rubber protects grass crowns from hoof damage while allowing growth through holes
- Self-Cleaning: Drainage holes allow mud and debris to fall through – surface stays clean
- Permanent Solution: Unlike woodchip or stone, mats last 10-15 years with zero maintenance
Real Customer Results from UK Yards
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Livery Yard Owner:
"Installed 20 mats across our three main gateways in October. Completely transformed our winter mud problem. Horses walk confidently over them even in pouring rain. Grass has grown through beautifully. Best investment we've made in 10 years!" – Emma T., Livery Yard, Devon
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Riding School Manager:
"We have 25 horses using our gateways daily. These mats have eliminated the muddy bottleneck we used to get every winter. Easy to install – took 2 of us about an hour for 15 mats. Drainage is excellent. Highly recommend." – Sarah M., Riding School, Yorkshire
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Private Horse Owner:
"Bought 6 mats for my field gateway and wash bay. No more muddy hooves! My farrier loves the stable surface for shoeing. Mats have been down 3 years now with zero issues. Worth every penny." – Claire R., Private Owner, Gloucestershire
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Equestrian Centre:
"Installed 50+ mats across our yard including all gateways, wash bays and main walkways. Reduced our winter maintenance time by 60%. Clients love the professional appearance. Mats pay for themselves in reduced bedding and vet bills." – James P., Equestrian Centre, Cheshire
Compare: Rubber Grass Mats vs Alternatives
| Solution | Cost (10m²) | Installation | Lifespan | Maintenance | Grass Growth |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rubber Grass Mats | £317 | 30 mins | 10-15 years | None | ✓ Yes |
| Woodchip | £80-120 | 1 hour | 6-12 months | High (top-up monthly) | ✗ No |
| Hardcore/Stone | £200-300 | 4-6 hours | 5-8 years | Moderate (top-up yearly) | ✗ No |
| Concrete | £600-900 | 2-3 days | 20+ years | None | ✗ No (permanent) |
| Plastic Grid Pavers | £400-600 | 2-3 hours | 8-10 years | Low | ~ Moderate |
| Geotextile + Stone | £250-400 | 3-4 hours | 5-7 years | Moderate | ✗ No |
Winner: Rubber grass mats offer the best combination of cost, ease of installation, longevity and grass-friendly design for equestrian applications.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How many mats do I need for a standard gateway?
A: A typical 3m wide gateway needs 2 mats across × 2-3 mats deep = 4-6 mats total. For high-traffic areas, extend to 4-5 mats deep (6m) for best results.
Q: Will grass really grow through the mats?
A: Yes. The 20mm holes allow 30% light transmission and full water/air flow. Grass grows through within 2-4 weeks in spring/summer, 6-8 weeks in autumn/winter. Once established, mats virtually disappear from view.
Q: Can I use these mats on a slope?
A: Yes, but we recommend the version with pegs and ties for slopes over 5°. Pegs anchor mats securely and ties link them together to prevent movement.
Q: Are these mats safe for barefoot horses?
A: Absolutely. The textured rubber surface is comfortable for barefoot horses and provides excellent grip. Many barefoot yards use these mats specifically for their anti-slip properties.
Q: How do I clean the mats?
A: The self-draining design means they stay clean naturally. For deep cleaning, simply hose down or pressure wash. Debris falls through the drainage holes.
Q: Can I drive a tractor over these mats?
A: Yes. The 23mm thickness and recycled rubber construction can handle tractors, 4x4 vehicles and heavy machinery without damage.
Q: Do I need to remove the mats in summer?
A: No. Leave them in place year-round. They're UV-stabilized and won't degrade in sunlight. Grass continues to grow through them in all seasons.
Q: What's the difference between mats with and without pegs?
A: Mats without pegs rely on their 25kg weight to stay in place – suitable for flat areas. Mats with pegs include ground anchors and connecting ties – essential for slopes or very high-traffic areas.
Q: Can I cut the mats to fit irregular shapes?
A: Yes. Use a chainsaw, angle grinder or reciprocating saw to cut mats to any shape. The rubber won't fray or unravel when cut.
Q: How long do the mats last?
A: 10-15 years in typical equestrian use. Some yards report 20+ years with mats still in excellent condition. The recycled rubber is incredibly durable.
Why Buy From Slip-Not?
- ✓ UK Stock & Fast Shipping: Ships same/next working day from our UK warehouse – no waiting for imports
- ✓ Free UK Delivery: No hidden costs – free standard delivery on all orders
- ✓ Equestrian Specialists: 15+ years supplying UK yards, riding schools and liveries
- ✓ Expert Advice: UK-based team available for site planning and quantity calculations
- ✓ Quality Guarantee: Premium recycled rubber – manufactured to highest standards
- ✓ 30-Day Returns: Not satisfied? Return unused mats within 30 days for full refund
- ✓ Bulk Discounts: Competitive pricing for large yards and riding schools (10+ mats)
- ✓ Trade Accounts: Special rates for equestrian contractors and landscapers
- ✓ Installation Support: Free site planning advice and installation guidance
Order Today – Transform Your Muddy Gateways
✓ In stock and ready to ship
✓ Order before 2pm for same-day dispatch
✓ Free UK delivery
✓ 30-day money-back guarantee
✓ 10-15 year lifespan
Join thousands of UK yards who've eliminated their winter mud problems with Slip-Not rubber grass mats. Safe, durable and eco-friendly solution that pays for itself in reduced maintenance and vet bills.
Need help calculating quantities? Contact our UK team for free site planning advice. Large yard? Get in touch for bulk pricing on 20+ mats.
Related Products for Equestrian Yards
- Stable Mats: 6ft × 4ft rubber mats for inside stables and horse boxes
- Rubber Matting Rolls: Continuous rolls for walkways and larger areas
- Anti-Fatigue Mats: Extra cushioning for grooming and tack areas
- Entrance Matting: Dirt-trapping mats for tack rooms and feed stores
🌱 Eco-Friendly & Sustainable: Our rubber grass mats are made from 100% recycled tyres, diverting waste from landfill. Each mat contains approximately 15-20 recycled tyres. By choosing Slip-Not, you're supporting sustainable equestrian practices while solving your mud problems. The mats are also 100% recyclable at end of life.
